My dear brothers and sisters:

The Gospel for this 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time presents Jesus inviting his disciples to follow Him with hearts willing to surrender themselves. Peter, after recognizing Jesus as the Messiah, does not understand that Jesus’ path must pass through the cross. The Lord reminds us that being His disciples does not mean always seeking comfort, but learning to trust God even when the journey becomes difficult.

Jesus tells us clearly: “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” These words are not an invitation to suffering for its own sake, but a call to live with love, generosity, and faithfulness. Each of us has our own crosses and responsibilities, and when we carry them united with Christ, they can become opportunities to grow in faith and love.

In the second reading, Saint Paul encourages us to offer our lives to God as a living sacrifice. This means that our faith is not limited to the church or to moments of prayer, but must transform the way we live, serve, and relate to others. As a parish community, we are called to be witnesses of Christ through our words, but above all through our acts of charity, service, and forgiveness.

This Sunday, let us ask the Lord for the grace not to be afraid to follow Him faithfully. May we recognize Him in both the joys and the difficulties of each day, always trusting that His love sustains us. May our parish be a community that walks with Jesus, carrying our crosses with hope and helping one another discover that giving our lives in love is, in Christ, the true path to fullness.

May God bless you abundantly!

Rev. Julio Fernández